The AVA bars I received with a used PX-10 (I never rode these bars) have cracks running along the bars on both sides. On one side they start at the bulged section, on the other about an inch away. In both cases, they extend around the bends to the drops. On close inspection, one side also sags down as it leaves the bulged center section. BTW, I have several Pivo and "BF" (Belleri France?) stems very similar in design to the AVAs. Anyone had any problem with these breaking, or only the AVAs? I also have what appear to be late 70's or early 80's AVA bars that are completely different and much nicer than those found on the PX-10. These are very nicely engraved, with a shield on both sides, one featuring doves, the other lions and fleurs-de-lis. A band encircles the edge of the center section on each side with alternating V's and upside down V's. I assume the inverted V's are stylized A's and the bands are meant to spell "AVA" repeatedly. These came with a very nice stem marked "AVA" but similar to a Cinelli 1A or TTT Record, with recessed hex quill and clamp bolts. Anyone else seen these? I was amazed that AVA ever made anything this nice. Just another example of a French company improving their products after it was too late, I guess.
Regards,
Jerry Moos
John Everett wrote:
> > Since I'm the one who wanted a refresher on how to spot the infamous AVA
> > stem, I've taken the liberty of posting Larry O's pictures to one of my
> > albums. Those interested can take a look here (and wade through the other
> > stuff):
> >
> > http://albums.photopoint.com/
>
> I've been (infrequently) riding my PX10 with the original AVA stem
> and bars; and based upon Sheldon Brown's warnings, inspecting
> them before every ride. Now that I've confirmed that I indeed own a
> genuine Death Stem, is there a particular point of failure to which I
> should be paying special attention? Where do these suckers
> break?
>
> While we're at it, where do the AVA bars tend to fail? I've noticed
> some slight crazing around the butting where the bars get larger to
> fit into the stem. I've been monitoring the area (with a magnifying
> glass) but the crazing hasn't been getting noticably worse.
>
> jeverett@wwa.com (John V. Everett)